Method for consolidating an earth stratum situated in a subgrade by withdrawing water that is present in there from it, comprising the stepwise arrangement from the surface of the soil, at some depth, of vertical drain, such as drains, in the earth stratum, the arrangement of horizontal drainage provided by a drainage pipe or pipes, in the upper area of the earth stratum and connecting them to the vertical drain for water transfer between them, the arrangement of an air sealing layer directly over the horizontal drainage pipes and the closing of the surface of the soil, as well as the connection of the horizontal drainage pipes to a pump for discharge of the water.